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In reply to the discussion: Fuck You Tony Dungy [View all]Are_grits_groceries
(17,111 posts)It took him years to become an NFL assistant coach. Owners and coaches were leery of hiring African-Americans. 'Things might happen.' It might make some players and fans uncomfortable. After that, it took him a while to become a head coach.
He had no problem mentoring Michael Vick who was a complete distraction when trying to find a team after leaving prison. Dungy lobbied other coaches to give him a chance. In addition, he had a few distractions while coaching. Marvin Harrison was one such player. He was accused of murder. So his 'distractions' are of a certain nature.
As far as his religious beliefs go, he must have forgotten that people used passages from the Bible to deny blacks their rights and call them inferior. Turning that around was when things happened and that noxious belief was generally put to rest.
Jackie Robinson was a huge 'distraction.' However, Branch Rickey was determined he would play and a barrier was broken. You better believe that his presence made a lot of people uncomfortable.
'Distraction' is a code word. It has a general, nebulous meaning and can be used against anybody. They don't mind the distraction of players with DUIs, drug convictions, domestic abuse allegations and I could go on. It's bullshit.
As far as the Oprah documentary, Dungy's timeline is very suspect. That entire project was called off before his comments were made. It was another convenient excuse. Except for an appearance at the ESPYs, Michael Sam has been invisible.
I have kept up with Tony Dungy for years. I have admired him for his work with others and as a coach. I was very surprised to see these comments. Dungy is well-respected in the NFL and HE is the one who has caused a distraction and done Michael Sam a disservice.
Since when is a religious conviction that is bigoted ok? Does your religion trump others rights? Make no mistake. He hurt Michael Sams chances. People will use Dungy for cover. Sam is already behind the curve as a 7th round pick when he should have gone in the 4th round at least. Any other SEC player with his credentials would have.
So keep defending Dungy! Keep defending the status quo. Let's not get distracted. After all, those distractions will doom a team to oblivion.